Facelift

Facelift surgery can achieve dramatic facial rejuvenation with lasting results. In addition to deep wrinkles and jowls, facelift surgery also involves tightening the underlying support structures of the face and removing excess, sagging skin.

Many Houston facelift patients feel they look at least 10 years younger after the procedure and may also choose to combine a facelift with a neck lift, eyelid surgery, and fat grafting or facial fillers to further reduce the signs of facial aging.

The Facelift in Houston TX

It is important for patients who seek invasive facial rejuvenation with a facelift to follow all instructions provided to help you prepare for surgery, such as discontinuing medications that thin the blood and quitting smoking for at least several weeks prior to the procedure.

During your facelift in Houston, you will be placed under general anesthesia or local anesthesia, and Dr. Norris will place incisions discreetly hidden in the lower hairline and behind the ears. Facial tissues are lifted and tightened, and excess skin is trimmed and removed.

Incisions are stitched or sutured closed, and a dressing is placed on the wounds that must be kept in place until it is removed during your follow-up appointment with Dr. Norris the next day. You may also be fitted with a chin strap and drains to help reduce swelling and fluid build up.

Recovering From a Facelift in Houston

Get good rest the first 24 hours after your facelift and take prescribed medications to manage discomfort and prevent infection. You may shower and gently wash and dry your hair about two days after your facelift.

If Dr. Norris recommends a chin strap for you, this must be worn continuously for the first three days after surgery, and then only at night for several weeks. Keep your head elevated as you rest to further reduce swelling and don’t be alarmed if in addition to swelling you experience bruising, numbness and tingling for days and in some cases for weeks following surgery.

Most facelift patients return to work after about two weeks and may resume all normal activities, including exercise, within 4-6 weeks. Scars will fade over time as incisions heal, and you will begin to see your refreshed, uplifted look within a few months.

Am I a good candidate for a facelift?

Ideal candidates for facelift surgery will be in good overall health and possess loose skin around the face and neck regions. Ideal candidates will also have realistic post-surgical expectations and goals. There are no age restrictions for facelift surgery; however, most candidates are between 40 and 70 years of age.

Will it be obvious that I had a facelift?

If performed correctly, there should be no visible indicators that you have had a facelift. The goal of facelift surgery is to create a natural, more youthful appearance. A well-done surgery will make you look rested and refreshed without creating “tight” facial features.

How long will the results last?

The aging process is ongoing, so the results of a facelift will not be permanent. There are various lifestyle and environmental factors such as age and smoking or drinking habits that may have an effect on the longevity of your facelift. In ideal conditions, you can expect to retain a youthful appearance for 10 years or longer following surgery.

Are there any significant risks associated with facelift surgery?

Although facelift surgery is generally considered safe, there are inherent complications or risks associated with any surgical procedure. For this reason, it is important for you to discuss these risks with your surgeon. Complications with facelift surgery can include nerve damage, infection, bleeding, or prolonged healing, especially for patients who smoke.

Will there be any significant scarring?

As with most surgical procedures, you should expect some scarring following a facelift. The location will depend upon the type of procedure you elect, but scars are most commonly visible around the ears or beneath the chin area. The appearance of these scars will typically begin to fade within a few weeks and should be unnoticeable after one to three months.

Do you have questions or concerns about a facelift in Houston? Contact Dr. Norris in Houston to schedule a consultation, during which you can discuss the risks, benefits and cost of a facelift.